Urethral compression device

ABSTRACT

A urethral compression device prevents male urinary incontinence by compressing the urethra. The device has a pressure-applying element. The urethral compression device compress the urethra. The device is designed to allow the user to manipulate the device using only one hand, if so desired.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No.09/301,184, filed on Apr. 28, 1999 now U.S. pat. No. 6,289,895, which isa Continuation-In-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/067,522, filed onApr. 28, 1998 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,234,174.

The entire contents of the above applications are incorporated herein byreference in entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Male urinary incontinence can result from a variety of physical orneurological conditions. The incidence of incontinence increases withadvanced age. Surgical treatment of prostate cancer or benign prostatichyperplasia (BPH), such as radical prostatectomies, open ortransurethral prostatectomy, and trauma to the membranous urethra orbladder neck can all cause temporary or permanent incontinence in men.

Existing external compressive incontinence control devices are based onthe principle that if the entire cross-section of the penile shaft issufficiently compressed, the urethra will be correspondingly flattenedto prevent any urine leakage. In order to prevent the urine leakage, thepenis must be flattened to about 40% or more of the normal penilediameter. When a conventional penile clamp is used with this level ofcompression, the major side effect is constriction of blood vessels andprevention of blood circulation to the penis. While most users of thepenile clamps of these types learn to periodically remove the clamps totemporarily restore blood circulation, it is nonetheless a majorinconvenience. In addition, these conventional devices are heavy andbulky, uncomfortable and insufficiently discreet.

Others have recognized that it would be desirable to selectivelycompress the urethra, which is situated along the central underside ofthe penile shaft, without exerting undue compression of the entirepenile shaft. While these devices compress the urethra more than thebody of penis, the devices are either too bulky, which detracts from theuser's comfort level and privacy, or are comprised of many componentswhich increase the complexity and cost of the device and the probabilityof failure. Also, many of the devices require two hands for applicationor removal.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a urethral compression device. The urethralcompression device has a compression element which extendslongitudinally, so that when engaging the penis the compression elementextends parallel to the urethra to compress the urethra. A latchingmechanism retains the urethral compression device in the position tocompress the urethra.

In an embodiment, the urethral compression device has an arced shapedelement having a first and a second arm. A compression element thatapplies pressure is carried by the arced element for compressing theurethra. The compression device can be made of a molded plastic materialthat is positioned in an open state when in an unstressed condition. Theuser bends one arm to connect the ends of the arms together and placesthe device under stress in the closed position. The user can easilyremove the device when the arc shaped element is in the open unstressedstate.

In an embodiment of the invention, the pressure applying or compressiondevice has a width of between 100 percent and 150 percent of thediameter of the urethra for optimally compressing the urethra andminimally compressing the rest of the penis. The device can befabricated in a number of different sizes as needed.

In an embodiment, the device has a latching mechanism including aplurality of teeth carried by one arm and a pawl on the other arm toengage the teeth for retaining the arced shaped element in a closedposition. The arced shaped element is biased towards an open positionsuch that release of the arms opens the device.

The urethral compression device provides a male urinary incontinencecontrol device that is effective, non-invasive, reliable, comfortableand easily adjustable without complicated construction, adjustmentprocedures, or accessories. In addition, the design of the device alsoensures that the user is able to maintain a high degree of privacywithout being noticed by others when the user is wearing andmanipulating the device.

By applying pressure selectively to the area of urethra, the urethra canbe sufficiently compressed or occluded to prevent urine flow withoutexerting undue pressure to other parts of the penis or reducing bloodcirculation.

In an embodiment, the urethral compression device is structured withoutan apparent localized hinge point. Because of the properties inherent inthe construction materials, the device is provided with sufficientflexibility to allow the opening and closing of the pair of ends.

In several embodiments, the urethral compression device has a pair ofdistinct latching mechanisms to retain the device around the penis andto compress the urethra. The compression of the urethra in thoseembodiments is accomplished by a compression hinge which closes andforms a pressuring device as the compression hinge is moved towards theurethra. The second or compression latching mechanism holds thecompression hinge in position.

In an embodiment, the urethral compression device has a strap, a closurelatching mechanism, a compression latching mechanism, and a compressionhinge. The device has a pair of substantially flat pressure-applyingelements hinged together at the compression hinge. The compressionlatching mechanism which works in conjunction with the compression hingeto compress the urethra. The latching mechanism has a plurality of teethwhich define receptacles and an engaging tab.

The second ends of the flat pressure-applying elements are moved towardseach other, therein moving the compression hinge perpendicular towardsthe penis to compress the urethra. The moving of the second ends of theflat pressure-applying elements results in moving of the compressionlatching mechanism into a closed latched position retaining thecompression hinge against the penis.

The closure latching mechanism, in an embodiment, has a locking tabwhich projects inwardly into a receptacle which receives the strap. Tosecure the urethral compression device around the user's penis, thestrap is threaded through the receptacle and secured by engaging thelocking tab against the strap.

In one embodiment, the urethral compression device has a control clampcarried by a flexible strap. The control clamp has a compressionprojection that extends transverse to the urethra. The compressionprojection is carried by a rotating arm that pivots about a base at anaxis at the opposite end of the arm from the compression projection. Thearm pivots about the axis moving the compression projection away ortowards the base. The movement of the arm is controlled by an adjustmentscrew.

The urethral compression device can be opened for urination, closedafter urination, and adjusted to the desired degree of compression bythe user using only one hand, without the need for necessarily using theother hand.

The urethral compression device does not need to be removed from thepenis in order to allow the user to urinate. When the device is in placeand is opened for urination, the ends of the device springs open suchthat the opened device remains on the penis shaft. This functionality isprovided to avoid the necessity of removing the device from the penisshaft, when it is supported by the user during urination.

The size, weight and operational simplicity afford a particulardiscreteness to this invention. The design of the invention allows thewearer to use the urethral compression device without detection sincethe invention does not inhibit normal body movements. The small size ofthe invention does not add obvious volume bulk beneath user's clothing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated inthe accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer tothe same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustratingthe principles of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a front view of a urethral compression device according tothis invention in an open position;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the urethral compression device;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the urethral compression device in aclosed position encircling the penis;

FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the urethral compression device in aclosed position encircling the penis;

FIG. 5A is a sectional view of the pawl taken along line 5A—5A in FIG.1;

FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the ratchet teeth taken along line 5B—5Bin FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a front view of an alternate embodiment of a urethralcompression device in a closed position. The upper arm in an openposition is shown in phantom;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofthe urethral compression device having a cam of a first latchingmechanism exploded away. A second latching mechanism for compressing theurethra is shown in an open position;

FIG. 8 shows the urethra compression device of FIG. 7 with both thefirst and second latching mechanisms in a closed position;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the urethral compression device of FIGS. 7 and8 with a sectional view of the penile shaft. Both the first and secondlatching mechanism are in the open position;

FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIG. 9 with the first latching mechanismclosed and the second latching mechanism open;

FIG. 11 is a view similar to FIGS. 9 and 10 with both latchingmechanisms closed;

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the urethralcompression device having a first latching mechanism for closing thedevice and a second latching mechanism for compressing of the urethra;

FIG. 13 shows the urethral compression device of FIG. 12 with bothlatching mechanisms in the closed position;

FIG. 14 shows another alternate embodiment of the urethral compressiondevice with both the first and second latching mechanisms in an engagedposition;

FIG. 15 shows the urethral compression device of FIG. 14 with both thefirst and second latching mechanisms in an unengaged state;

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a urethral compressiondevice;

FIG. 17 illustrates the urethral compression device of FIG. 16 with boththe first and second latching mechanisms in an engaged state. The firstlatching mechanism has a slide tightener which is shown exploded out;

FIG. 18 shows an alternate embodiment of a urethral compression devicewith the first and second latching mechanisms in an unengaged state;

FIG. 19 shows the urethral compression device in FIG. 18 with the firstand second latching mechanisms in an engaged state;

FIG. 20 illustrates another alternate embodiment of a urethralcompression device with the first and second latching mechanisms in anunengaged state. The cam lever of the first latching mechanism and theratchet of the second latching mechanism are shown;

FIG. 21 illustrates the urethral compression device in FIG. 20 with thefirst and second latching mechanisms in an engaged state;

FIG. 22 shows an alternate embodiment of a urethral compression device;

FIG. 23 the urethral compression device in FIG. 22 with the first andsecond latching mechanisms in an engaged state;

FIG. 24 illustrates another embodiment of a urethral compression device,one latching mechanism in an unengaged state;

FIG. 25 illustrates the urethral compression device of FIG. 24 havingone latching mechanism in an engaged state;

FIG. 26 illustrates an alternate embodiment of a urethral compressiondevice having one latching mechanism;

FIG. 27 illustrates the urethral compression device of FIG. 26 with thelatching mechanism in an engaged state;

FIG. 28 shows an alternate embodiment of the invention illustrated inFIG. 26;

FIG. 29 shows the urethral compression of FIG. 28 with the latchingmechanism in a position similar to that shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of aurethral compression device with a first and a second latching mechanismin an unengaged state;

FIG. 31 illustrates the urethral compression device of FIG. 30 with boththe first and the second latching mechanisms in an engaged state;

FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view of another alternative embodimentof a urethral compression device;

FIG. 33 is a sectional view of the control clamp of the urethralcompression device of FIG. 32; and

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the control clamp.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the drawings in detail, where like numerals indicate likeelements, there is illustrated an urethral compression device inaccordance with the present invention designated generally as 10.

The urethral compression device 10 is generally an arced shapedstructure 12 having an upper arm 14 and a lower arm 16. In thisembodiment, the arced structure 12 has generally a “C” shaped structure.Each of the arms 14 and 16 terminate in a first end 18 and a second end20 where the ends extend around an arc of at least 270 degrees. The arms14 and 16 are adapted to couple as explained below to form a generallycylindrical compression device 10.

In an embodiment, the structure 12 is manufactured as one continuouspiece of material. The material is formed such that the structure 12 isbiased to an open position shown in FIG. 1, wherein the first end 18 andthe second end 20 are spaced from each other, and not engaged. Thestructure 12 in the open position receives the penis without compressingthe penis as described below.

The device 10 has an inner surface 22 and an outer surface 24. Thedevice 10 can have a thumb tab 26 on the outer surface 24 of the upperarm 14. The device 10 has a pressure-applying element 28 projectinginwardly on the inner surface of the lower arm. The pressure-applyingelement 28 has a raised portion which is sufficiently wide to optimallycompress the urethra to prevent urine leakage while minimallycompressing the bulk of the penis.

In an embodiment, the pressure-applying element 28 extends radicallyinward and is formed integrally as one piece with the arced shapedstructure 12. The radially extending element 28 may be formed with ahole 32, or a cavity, with various shapes or geometries for minimizingthe weight of the device 10. The presence or absence of a hole does notchange the mode of operation.

In an embodiment, the urethral compression device 10 is molded orextruded and made of a polymer material. The thickness of the arms 14and 18 of the arced shaped structure 12 is generally in a range of 1 mmto 5 mm, and between 1 mm to 2 mm in an embodiment. The device can befabricated with a variety of polymer materials such as polyethylene,polypropylene, nylon, or polycarbonate, either in pure form, plasticizedform, or composited with other polymers or filler materials. The fillermaterial can include carbon fiber, glass fiber or other suitable filler.The device can also be constructed with an inner core of one material,such as a metal, and outer surface of some other material such as apolymer by coating, lamination or other adhesion techniques.

In a preferred embodiment, the element 28 is cylindrically shaped andhas a diameter in the range of 10-15 mm. In order to achieve the desiredbenefits of this invention, both the size of the arced structure 12 andthe element 28 are tailor to fit to the individual users. This isaccomplished by presenting the urethral compression devices in a seriesof sizes in which arced shaped structure 12 will vary by the size of thepenis and the element 28 will vary in accordance with the size of theurethra, as explained below.

A side view of the urethral compression device 10 is shown in FIG. 2.The device 10 is generally uniform in its width. The inner surface ofthe upper arm 22 is shown in hidden line. The inner surface of the lowerarm including the pressure-applying element 28 is shown in hidden line.The hole 32 extending through the element 28 is shown in phantom. In apreferred embodiment, the urethral compression device 10 has a width inthe range of 10 mm to 25 mm and in the most common size having anapproximate width of 15 mm.

FIG. 3 illustrates the urethral compression device 10 on a penile shaft40. The user typically slides the urethral compression device 10 overthe penis 40, however, the arms 14 and 16 can be sufficiently separatesuch that the penis can pass between the upper end 18 and the lower end20 shown in FIG. 1.

With the urethral compression device 10, in an open position, encirclingthe penis 40, the user positions the device 10 such that thepressure-applying element 28 is located under the urethra 42, as seen inFIG. 4. The user presses the thumb tab 26, while holding the lower arm16 of the urethral compression device 10 with other fingers.

Still referring to FIG. 4, the arms 14 and 16 of the arced structure 12have a latching mechanism 46 near the ends 18 and 20 to hold theurethral compression device 10 in a closed position, as shown. In apreferred embodiment, the latching mechanism 46 has a pawl 48 on one armand a plurality of ratchet teeth 50 on the other arm.

One of the arms, the upper arm 14 as shown in FIG. 4, has the pawl 48projecting outward. The pawl 48 extends across over half of the width ofthe device 10 as seen in FIG. 5A.

The other arm, the lower arm 16 as shown in FIG. 4, has the plurality ofratchet teeth 50 projecting inward. The teeth 50, similar to the pawl48, extend across over half the width of the device as seen in FIG. 5B.

In the preferred embodiment, the ratchet teeth 50 are formed on thelower arm 16 and the pawl 48 is formed on the upper arm 14. It isrecognized that the arrangement can be reversed with the pawl on thelower arm and the ratchet teeth on the upper arm. It is furtherrecognized that the arrangement in which the ratchet teeth are made toproject outward with a corresponding inward projecting pawl is alsowithin the context of this invention.

Referring back to FIG. 4, the ends 18 and 20 of the arms 14 and 16 areramped so that upon sliding the arms together, the pawl 48 moves intoengagement with one of the ratchet teeth 50. The interlocking of the twoends 18 and 20 is designed to provide audible “clicks” when the pawl 48snaps into each locking position with the teeth 50. The sound serves tonotify the user how many ratchet teeth 50 the pawl 48 has passed orengaged so that user can determine when the precise engagement positionof the device is reached. In the preferred embodiment of the invention,the user must exert 1.5-3.0 pounds force on the arms 14 and 16 to causethe two ends 18 and 20 to initially engage.

The thumb tab 26, in addition to being used to direct the proper forcefor engaging the pawl 48 with the ratchet teeth 50, can also be used forunclasping device. Once in place, the user can unclasp the device eitherby depressing the thumb tab 26 toward penis 40 or by prying away theinclined tip of the lower arm 16 by approximately 1 mm with a tip of afinger to disengage the pawl 48 from the ratchet teeth 50, while holdingthe base of the device in the palm of the hand. Either of theseprocedures can be performed using only one hand. The inherent elasticityof the material and the design of the structure itself permits thedevice to spring to the open position when the pawl 48 is disengagedfrom the ratchet teeth 50.

In alternate embodiments, other methods can be used to cause the deviceto spring to the open position. One such method includes varying thewidth of the urethral compression device 10 along its circumference inspecific areas. Decreasing the width of the urethral compression device10 will increase the flexibility of the material in that area.

Another method includes varying the thickness of the urethralcompression device 10 in certain areas. Decreasing the thickness of theurethral compression device 10 in one area will increase the flexibilityof the compression device 10 in that area.

Another method to tailor the amount of force needed to open and closethe urethral compression device 10 is by choosing a material with aspecific modulus of elasticity. The modulus of elasticity of theurethral compression device 10 will control the extent to which thedevice springs to an open position when unclasped. A device 10 comprisedof a material with a high modulus of elasticity will spring open fasterthan a device 10 comprised of a material with a lower modulus.

Adding bracing or ribbing to certain areas of the outer circumference ofthe device 10 also controls the flexibility of the device 10, allowingthe device 10 to spring to an open position in certain cases. Theaddition of bracing or ribbing would decrease the flexibility of thedevice 10 in general. An area of the urethral compression device 10 withno bracing has a greater degree of flexibility than an area withbracing. It is recognized that any or all of these tailoring methods canbe used alone or in combination with each other to produce the desiredflexibility of the device 10.

The pressure applying device 28 of the urethral compression device 10has a width that compresses the user's urethra 42 while preventing theuser from feeling pinched by unnecessary compression of the penile shaft40. When the device is in the open position and has been correctlyfitted for the user's anatomy, it will accommodate the penis in anuncompressed state. When the device is in a closed position, thepressure-applying element 28 provides a pre-determined degree ofdepression necessary for preventing involuntary urinary flow.

The ratchet teeth 50 and the pawl 48 of the latching mechanism 46 allowfor the graduated adjustments in the degree of compression of the user'surethra 42.

To further understand how the urethral compression device 10 works, abrief description of the male urinary tract is needed. The innerdiameter of the urethra, which varies among individuals, could rangefrom 18 to 30 French (or 6 millimeter to 9.5 millimeter) (3 French=1mm). The wall thickness of urethra varies between 1 to 1.5 mm. The outerdiameter of the urethra varies from 7 to 11.5 mm.

In order to completely prevent the leakage of the urine with a penileclamping device, the vertical dimension of the urethra needs to becompressed into no more than the two wall thickness of the urethra. Forexample, let us use some typical measurements:

Penile outer diameter 31.8 mm Urethra inner diameter  8.3 mm Urethraouter diameter 10.7 mm Urethra wall thickness  1.2 mm

With the above typical measurements, the urethra vertical dimension (orthe urethra outer diameter) must be flattened by compression from 10.7mm to no more than 2.4 mm (two urethra wall-thickness). This representsa “degree of compression,” defined as reduction in the outer urethravertical dimension in the compressed state from the uncompressed urethraouter diameter (10.73−[2×1.2]=8.33) divided by the uncompressed urethraouter diameter, (10.7), expressed in percentage, of 78%. (0% representsno compression and 100% represent total compression.)

The urethral compression device 10 has the pressure-applying element 28at the base of the device 10 to flatten the urethra. The size of thiselement 28 is approximated by the outer diameter of the urethra. If thepenile OD=31.8 mm (same as the in the above illustration) and theelement 28 OD is assumed to be 13.914 mm (30% larger in diameter thanthe urethra OD of 10.7 mm), the overall resultant degree of compressionfor this device can be computed to be 19% by taking the ratio of thecross-sectional area of the penis compressed by the element 28, orsimply the pressure-applying element area, and the cross-sectional areaof the un-compressed penis. A higher degree of compression correspondsto a stronger feeling of being pinched. For comparison, to effect thesame degree of urethra flattening, the conventional penile clampingdevices require a degree of depression of 78%.

In a preferred embodiment, the urethral compression device 10 is sizedfor the user such that the inner diameter of the circle formed by theclosed device with the pressure-applying element 28 removed is the samediameter as the outer diameter of the penis. The urethral compressiondevice 10 in the open position receives the penis without thepressure-applying element 28 compressing the urethra. Thepressure-applying element 28 has a size in the range of 100% to 150% ofthe outer diameter of the urethra. In a preferred embodiment, theelement 28 is in a range of 110% to 140% of the diameter of the urethra.

FIG. 6 shows a preferred embodiment of the invention in a closedposition. The invention has a flat surface 60 which is located distal tothe pressure-applying element 28. The flat surface 60 provides the usersome frame of reference when applying the invention to a penis whereinthe flat surface 60 can be used by the user to locate the urethra. Wheninstalled properly, the flat surface 60 will be the lower surface. Thiswill cause the element 28 to align with the wearer's urethra, thusallowing proper installation of the device.

The upper arm 14 is shown in phantom in FIG. 6. The penis fits in anuncompressed state into the urethral compression device 10 when theurethral compression device 10 is in the open position.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate another embodiment of a urethral compressiondevice 100. The compression device 100 has a strap 102, a first latchingmechanism 104, a second latching mechanism 106, a hinge set 108, and acompression hinge 110.

The first or closure latching mechanism 104 has a cam lever 112connected to a receptacle 114 which receives the strap 102. The camlever 112 is pivotally attached to the receptacle 114. To secure theurethral compression device around the user's penis without applying anyundue pressure to specifically cause the urethra to be flattened, thestrap 102 is threaded through the receptacle 114 and secured by engagingthe cam lever 112 against the strap 102.

In a preferred embodiment, the strap 102 is made from a fabric material116 and a molded material 118. The strap 102 has a free end 120 which isused with the first or closure latching mechanism 104. The free end 120is a molded material 118 in the embodiment. It is recognized that thefree end 120 could be of a fabric material. The strap 102 is fabricmaterial portion 116 from the free end 120 to a point in proximity to ahinge point 122.

The molded material 118 extends from the receptacle 114 of the firstlatching mechanism 104 to a point beyond the hinge point 122 of thehinge set 108. The molded material 118 portion of the strap 102 includesboth hinge points 122 and 124 of the hinge set 108, the compressionhinge 110 and the portions of the second latching mechanism 106incorporated in the strap 102 as explained below.

The free end 120 of the strap 102 can have a plurality of size indicatormarkings 126. From these markings 126, a user can locate thepredetermined or premeasured point at which the device 100 will beadequately secured to his penis and prevent over or under tightening ofthe device 100, as seen in FIG. 8 and explained more below with respectto FIGS. 9-11.

The second or compression latching mechanism 106 has a rigid slidingportion 128 which slides into a receptacle portion 130. The secondlatching mechanism 106 works in conjunction with the hinge set 108 andthe compression hinge 110 to secure the compression hinge 110 against auser's urethra. The compression hinge 110 joins a pair of flatpressure-applying elements, which are referred to together as apressure-applying platform. The second latching mechanism 106 can bedisengaged by depressing a latch release mechanism 134 and removing thesliding portion 128 from the receptacle portion 130.

In typical operation, both the latching mechanism 104 and 106 of theurethral compression device 100 are in the open position. The userplaces the urethral compression device 100 around the penis as seen inFIG. 9. The penis is generally in a flaccid state. The user typicallyslides the urethral compression device 100 over the penis 40, however,the arms can be sufficiently separate such that the penis can passbetween the arms.

With both latching mechanisms 104 and 106 of the urethral compressiondevice 100 in an open or unengaged position and the urethral compressiondevice 100 generally around the penis 40, the user positions the device100 such that the compression hinge 110 which forms thepressure-applying element is located under the urethra 42.

The user then latches the first or closure latching mechanism 104 sothat urethral compression device 100 encircles the penis as seen in FIG.10. The free end 120 of the strap 102 is slipped through the receptacle114. The user can either move the strap until the desired size indicatormarking 126 is positioned relative to the cam lever 112, or by pullingthe strap 102 until proper tauntness is achieved.

It is recognized that for ease, the strap 102 could be of such a lengththat the free end 120 of the strap is always threaded through thereceptacle 114. In this state, the urethra 42 is not compressed or iscompressed slightly as seen in FIG. 10.

To compress the urethra 42, the user moves the second or compressionlatching mechanism 106 to a closed position as seen in FIG. 11. As thecompression latching mechanism 106 moves from an open position to aclosed latched position, the hinge set 108 flexes and the compressionhinge 110 moves up and exerts pressure on the urethra. The compressionhinge 110, which acts as a pressure applying device similar to theprevious embodiments, is sized such that when engaging the urethra, thecompression hinge has a width that compresses the user's urethra 42while preventing the user from feeling pinched by unnecessarycompression of the penile shaft 40. When the device is in a closedposition, the compressing hinge 110, which acts as the pressure-applyingelement, provides a predetermined degree of depression of the urethranecessary for preventing involuntary urinary flow.

The moving from the position shown in FIG. 10 to that shown in FIG. 11can alternatively be described as moving the hinge points of the hingeset 108 towards each other. The second ends, the end at the hinge point122 and 124, of the flat pressure-applying elements are moved towardseach other. Typically by pressing the strap in proximity to the hingepoints towards each other. The movement of the pressure-applyingelements towards each other results in moving the compression hinge 110towards and into engagement with the penis 40 to compress the urethra42. The compression latch 106 moves to a closed position to retain thecompression hinge 110 which acts as a pressure-applying element inengagement with the penis compressing the urethra. In a preferredembodiment, the compression latching mechanism makes an audible clickwhich allows the user to determine the position of the compression hinge110.

When the user desires to relieve pressure and open the urethra, the useropens the second or compression latching mechanism 106, using therelease mechanism 134 therein returning to what is shown in FIG. 10. Incontrast to the previous embodiments, the urethral compression device100 still totally encircles the penis.

To remove the urethral compression device 100 from a penis, a user canrotate the cam lever 112 thereby allowing strap 102 to loosen.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate another embodiment of the urethralcompression device 100. A strap 102 forms the body of the compressiondevice 100. The compression device 100 in addition has a first orclosure latching mechanism 138, a second or compression latchingmechanism 140 and a compression hinge 142.

The strap 102, has both an inner surface 144 and an outer surface 146.In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface 144 of the strap 102 has apadding material 148. The padding material 148 is a foam material or asponge material. The padding material 148 can provide the user with adegree of comfort when wearing the compression device 100. For example,the padding material 148 can absorb moisture and gives the user theimpression that it will prevent pinching of the user's penis by thestrap 102 or digging of the edge of the strap into the penis.

In this embodiment, the first latching mechanism 138 has a tooth portion150 and a tooth receptacle 152. The tooth receptacle 152 forms a channelfor receiving the tooth portion 150. The user places the tooth portion150 into the tooth receptacle 152 such that the device 100 encircles thepenis. In a preferred embodiment, either the tooth portion 150 has aplurality of teeth or the tooth receptacle 152 has a plurality ofgrooves for receiving the teeth to allow for adjustability.

The compression device 100 has a first hinge set 154 and a second hingeset 156. These hinge sets 154 and 156 each have a pair of hinges on thestrap 102. The first hinge set 154 is a living hinge both with areduction in material and a contour shaped which allows the urethralcompression device 100 to closely conform to the shape of a user's penisand allow for a secure fit of the compression device 100 around a user'spenis. The second hinge set 156 works in conjunction with thecompression hinge 142 to assert pressure against the user's urethra.

When engaged, the compression hinge 142 forms the pressure-applyingelement to compress a user's urethra, thereby preventing fluid flow andalleviating a symptom of incontinence. Similar to the hinge sets 154 and156, the hinge 142 is formed of a flexible living hinge material of thestrap 102.

The second latching mechanism 140 comprises a tooth portion 158 and atooth receptacle 160. The second latching mechanism 140, when engaged,can adjust the angle in the compression hinge 142 and move the hingepoints of the second hinge set 156 closer together. A user can engageand index the tooth portion 158 and the second tooth receptacle 160 toadjust the amount of flexion in the compression hinge 142. As a usermoves the tooth portion 158 and second tooth receptacle 160 of thesecond latching mechanism 140 together, the compression hinge 142 movestowards and impinge the user's urethra.

The first 138 and second 140 latching mechanisms each have a releasemechanism 164 and 166 respectively. The release mechanisms 164 and 168allow a user to release the urethral compression device 100 to allowfluids to pass through the urethra or to allow cleaning of the device orthe penis. The release mechanisms 164 and 166 are formed as part of thetooth receptacle 152 and 160 respectively. The tooth receptacles 152 and160 are biased to a closed engaging position and each have spring tab168 and 170 to move the tooth receptacle 152 and 160 to their respectiveopen positions.

In typical operation, both the latching mechanism 138 and 140 are in theopen position as seen in FIG. 8. The user places the urethralcompression device 100 around the penis. The user typically slides theurethral compression device 100 over the penis 40, however, the arms canbe sufficiently separate such that the penis can pass between the arms.

With both latching mechanisms 138 and 140 of the urethral compressiondevice 100 in an open position and the urethral compression device 100generally around the penis 40, the user positions the device 100 suchthat the compression hinge 142 which forms the pressure-applying elementis located under the urethra 42.

The user then latches the first or closure latching mechanism 138 sothat urethral compression device 100 encircles the penis. In this state,the urethra 42 is not compressed or is compressed slightly. To compressthe urethra 42, the user moves the second or compression latchingmechanism 140 to a closed position. As the compression latchingmechanism 140 moves from an open position to a closed latched positionseen in FIG. 13, the second hinge set 156 flexes and the compressionhinge 142 moves up and exerts pressure on the urethra. The compressionhinge 142 acts as a pressure applying device similar to the previousembodiments. The device 100 is sized such that when the compressionhinge 142 pushes against the urethra, the compression hinge has a widththat compresses the user's urethra 42 while preventing the user fromfeeling pinched by unnecessary compression of the penile shaft 40.

When the user desires to relieve pressure and open the urethra, the useropens the second or compression latching mechanism 140, using the secondrelease mechanism 166. In contrast to the previous embodiments, theurethral compression device 100 still totally encircles the penis.

To remove the urethral compression device 100 from a penis, a user canengage the first release mechanism 164 thereby detaching the firstlatching mechanism 138 and allowing for the open strap 102 to beremoved.

An alternate embodiment of the urethral compression device 100 isillustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15. The compression device 100 has a firstor closure latching mechanism 174 and a second or compression latchingmechanism 176.

The first latching mechanism 174 has a sliding portion 178 and areceptacle portion 180. The sliding portion 178 of the first latchingmechanism 174 slides into the receptacle portion 180 and locks, as seenin FIG. 15, therein to secure the urethral compression device 100 aroundthe user's penis. In an embodiment, the sliding portion 178 hascompressible arms that flex inward as the arms enter the receptacleportion 180 and flex outward in the large area to secure the latchingmechanism 174. The first or closure latching mechanism 174 can bedisengaged by depressing a latch release mechanism and removing thesliding portion 178 from the receptacle portion 180 to return to an openposition shown in FIG. 14.

The second or compression latching mechanism 176 has a sliding portion182 which slides into a receptacle portion 184. The second latchingmechanism 176 can be disengaged by depressing a latch release mechanismand removing the sliding portion 182 from the receptacle portion 184.

The urethral compression device 100 has a single hinge set 186 withinthe strap 102. The hinge set 186 with its hinge points 188 work inconjunction with the compression latching mechanism 176 to secure acompression hinge 120 against a user's urethra.

The second latching mechanism 176 is shown in a released or disconnectedposition in FIG. 14 wherein the compression hinge 120 from an engagedstate and is shown engaged in FIG. 15, which forces the compressionhinge 120 against a user's urethra.

In addition to the hinge set 186, the strap 102 can flex as anon-localized hinge to allow opening and closure. The hinge set 186 ofthe urethral compression device flexure to allow opening and closure ofboth latching mechanisms 174 and 176.

Another alternate embodiment of the urethral compression device 100 isillustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17. The strap 102 forms the body of thecompression device 100. The compression device 100 has a first orclosure latching mechanism 190. The first latching mechanism 190 whichis referred to as a zip tie latching mechanism, has a zip tie latch 192with a detent mechanism and a zip tie strap 194 with a plurality ofclosely spaced grooves 196. To secure the urethral compression device ona user's penis, the zip tie strap 194 is threaded through the zip tielatch 192. The detent of the zip tie latch engages one of the grooves196 of the zip tie line 194 as a user indexes the zip tie line 194through the latch 192, thereby securing the urethral compression device100 around the user's penis. The user releases the urethral compressiondevice 100 from his penis by lifting the zip tie latch 192, therebyspacing the detent from the grooves 196 on the zip tie line 194 andallowing the zip tie line 194 to be loosened by the user.

The urethral compression device 100 has a pair of hinge points 198 whichdefine a hinge set. The strap 102 is flexible and conforms the penisfrom one of the hinge points 198 to the other hinge points for theportion that does not include the compression hinge 200.

The urethral compression device 100 has a second latching mechanism 202with a wishbone latch 204 and a latch receptacle 206, which is formed onthe outer surface of the strap 102 between the compression hinge 200 andeach of the hinge points 198. The wishbone latch 204 has a pair ofwishbone ends 208, each with engaging tabs 210. The motion of thewishbone latch 204 engaging the latch receptacle 206 forces thecompression hinge 200 toward the urethra of the user. The compression ofthe strap 102 of the urethral compression device 100 near the hingepoints 198 moves the compression hinge 200 upward. The engaging tabs 210of wishbone latch 204 pass over and engage the latch receptacle 206 toretain the compression hinge 200 which acts as the pressure-applyingelement can be secured into place against the user's urethra. Similar toprevious embodiments, the compression hinge, which acts as a pressureapplying device, is sized such that when engaging the urethra, thecompression hinge has a width that compresses the user's urethra butdoes not unnecessarily compress the remainder of the penile shaft.

To release the compression hinge 200, the wishbone ends 208 arecompressed together, thereby releasing the wishbone latch 204 from thelatch receptacle 206. The compression hinge 200 is then free to moveaway from the user's urethra.

The first latching mechanism 190 is shown in FIG. 16 with the zip tiestrap 194 inserted in the zip tie latch 192, but in a looser state whichallows the device to be removed from around the user's penis. The secondlatching mechanism 202 is unengaged which allows the release of thecompression hinge 200 from an engaged state against a urethra. FIG. 17illustrates the urethra compression device 100 in an engaged state. Thefirst latching mechanism 190 is secured in this embodiment, therebyforcing the strap 102 to enclose a penis. The second latching mechanism202 is similarly engaged in this embodiment, which forces thecompression hinge 200 against a user's urethra.

Another alternate embodiment of the urethral compression device 100 witha different style latching mechanism is illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19.The compression device 100 has a strap 102, a first latching mechanism220, a second latching mechanism 222, a hinge set 224, and a compressionhinge 226. The first or closure latching mechanism 180 has a receptacle228 which receives the free end of the strap 102. The receptacle 228 hasa slide tightener 232 which travels within a slot 234. To secure theurethral compression device around the user's penis, the strap 102 isthreaded through the receptacle 228 and the proper length positioned.The slide tightener 232 moves within the slot 234 from a released,raised position to an engaged, lowered position as seen in FIG. 19. Theslide tightener 232 is moved to the engaged, lowered position. Thetension of the strap 102 attempting to pull out keeps the slidetightener 232 in position.

The strap 102 in a preferred embodiment has a plurality of sizeindicator markings 236 on the surface of the strap 102. From thesemarkings 236, a user can locate the predetermined or premeasured pointat which the device 100 will be adequately secured around his penis andprevent over or under tightening of the device 100. A user releases theurethral compression device 100 from his penis by moving the slidetightener 232 from the engaged, lowered position to the released, raisedposition within the slot 234, thereby allowing the strap 102 to beremoved from the receptacle 228 and the compression device 100 to slipoff the user's penis.

The second or compression latching mechanism 222 which works inconjunction with the compression hinge 226 to compress the urethra. Thesecond latching mechanism 222, referred to in this embodiment as a oneposition ratchet, has a first ratchet arm 236 and a second ratchet arm238. To compress a urethra, the user moves the first and second ratchetarms 236 and 238 toward each other by moving the strap 102 in proximityto the hinge points 240 of the hinge set 224 towards each other orengages the fingers 242 of the ratchet arms 236 and 238 and moving themtowards the opposite hinge point 240. This motion of the ratchet arms236 and 238 forces the compression hinge 260 toward the urethra of theuser. The ratchet arms 236 and 238 each have a locking ramp 244 whichslide past each other and engage as seen in FIG. 14, the compressionhinge 226 is secured to form the pressure applying device to compressthe user's urethra.

To release the compression hinge 226 from a locked or secured position,the first and second ratchet arms 236 and 238 are separated to cause thelocking ramps 244 to disengage, thereby providing for removal of thecompression hinge 226 from the user's urethra.

Another alternate embodiment of the urethral compression device 100 isillustrated in FIGS. 20 and 21. The compression device 100 has a strap102, a hinge set 248, a compression hinge 250, a first or closurelatching mechanism 252 and a second or compression latching mechanism254.

In one embodiment, the strap 102 is made from a fabric material 256 anda molded material 258 which can be molded over a portion of the fabric256. The molded material 256 extends from the first latching mechanism252 to a point beyond a hinge point 260 of the hinge set 248. The moldedmaterial 258 portion of the strap 102 includes both hinge points 260 ofthe hinge set 248, the compression hinge 250 and the portions of thesecond latching mechanism 254 incorporated in the strap 102 as explainedbelow.

The first latching mechanism 252 has a cam lever 262 connected to areceptacle 264 which receives the strap 102. The cam lever 262 ispivotally attached to the receptacle 264. To secure the urethralcompression device 100 around the user's penis, the strap 102 isthreaded through the receptacle 264 and secured by engaging the camlever 262 against the strap 102.

The strap 102 can have a plurality of size indicator markings 266 on thesurface of the strap. From these markings 266, a user can locate thepredetermined or premeasured point at which the device 100 will beadequately secured to his penis and prevent over or under tightening ofthe device 100. A user can release the urethral compression device 100from his penis by releasing the cam lever 262 from a locked positionover the receptacle 264, thereby allowing the strap 102 to be loosenedand the device 100 removed from the user's penis.

The second latching mechanism 254 which is located near the compressionhinge 250, has a notched pawl 268 formed integrally with the moldedmaterial 258 portion of the strap 102, and a ratchet 270. The notchedpawl 268 has a pawl portion 272 and is surrounded by a notch or voidportion of the strap 102. The ratchet is mounted to a pin 274 which ishoused in a pin receptacle 276 on the urethral compression device 100 atthe compression hinge 250.

To compress a urethra, the user aligns the ratchet 270 with the pawlportion 272 of the notched pawl 268. The user then raise the pinreceptacle 276 towards his urethra by pushing the strap 102 in proximityto the hinge points 260 towards each other. This raising motion forcesthe compression hinge 250 against the user's urethra.

The pawl portion 272 of the notched pawl 268 engages the ratchet 270mounted on the pin 274. When the ratchet 270 is engaged by the pawlportion 272, the compression hinge 250 will remain engaged against theuser's urethra until released.

To release the compression hinge 250, the user depresses the pin 274 sothat the ratchet 270 aligns with the void portion of the notched pawl268. With the pawl portion 272 of the notched pawl 268 no longerengaging the ratchet 270, the compression hinge 250 can be released fromthe user's urethra.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate an alternate embodiment of the urethralcompression device 100. Similar to the previous embodiment, the urethralcompression device 100 has a strap 102, a hinge set 278, a compressionhinge 280, a first latching mechanism 282 and a second latchingmechanism 284. Likewise, the straps 102 are made from a fabric material286 and a molded material 288. The molded material 288 in thisembodiment extends from a portion of the first latching mechanism tojust before the hinge point. The molded material 288 portion of strap102 includes the compression hinge 280, the second latching mechanism284 and portions of the first latching mechanism 282 as explained below.In contrast to the previous embodiment, the hinge points 290 of thehinge set 278 are living hinges formed from the fabric material 286portion of the strap 102 in proximity to the molded material 288.

The first latching mechanism 282 has a first and a second buckle portionslots 292 and 294. The slots 292 and 294 are located on the moldedmaterial 288 portion of the strap 102 and on opposite sides of thecompression hinge 280. The first latching mechanism has a tooth 296projecting into one of the slots 292 and 294. To secure the compressiondevice 100 to a penis, a user threads the free end of the strap 102through the first buckle portion 292 and the second buckle portion slot294 along the strap thread path 298. In a preferred embodiment, thestrap 102 has a plurality of apertures 300 located near the free end.The strap 102 is pulled to the proper position wherein one of theapertures fits around the tooth 296 projecting into the second buckleportion slot 294, such as seen in FIG. 23, to secure the device 100around his penis. A user can release the urethral compression device 100from his penis by releasing the strap 102 from the tooth 296, therebyallowing the strap 102 to be loosened, as seen in FIG. 22, and thedevice 100 removed from the user's penis.

The second or compression latching mechanism 284 has a pair of ratchets302 and a pair of pawls 304. In a preferred embodiment, the ratchets 302are each one position ratchets or detaching grooves, each for receivingand holding a pawl 304 when the second latching mechanism 284 is in anengaged or closed position. When a user tightens the strap 102 withinthe first latching mechanism 282, this motion can cause the compressionhinge 120 to flex and move toward the user's urethra.

To compress the urethra, the user moves the strip 102 in proximity tothe hinge points 290 of the hinge set 278 towards each other whichresults in the compression hinge 280 with a pair of flexible portions306 moving towards the user's urethra. The pawls 304 engage the ratchets302 of the second latching mechanism 284 to retain the compression hinge280 against his urethra. To release the compression hinge 280 the usercan depress the pawl 304, releasing the ratchet 302, allowing thecompression hinge 280 to be moved away from the user's urethra.

An alternate embodiment of the urethral compression device 320 is shownin FIGS. 24 and 25. In contrast to the previous several embodiments, theurethral compression device 320 has only one latching mechanism 322 toboth close the opening to retain the urethral compression device 320around a user's penis and engage the compression mechanism against auser's urethra. In contrast to the first embodiment, the pressureapplying device is created by a compression hinge 324. The latchingmechanism 322 having a zip tie latch 326 and a zip tie line 328. The ziptie line 328 has a plurality of grooves or openings which are used tosecure the zip tie line 328 within the zip tie latch 326 which has atooth. To secure the compression device 320 to a penis and impinge aurethra, a user can thread the zip tie line 328 through the zip tielatch 326. Pulling the line 328 though the latch 326 can secure theurethral compression device 320 around the user's penis. The pulling ofthe line 328 will also cause the compression hinge 324 to move towardthe urethra, thereby compressing it. The teeth of the zip tie line 328secures the line 328 within the latch 326.

FIGS. 26 and 27 show an alternate embodiment of a urethral compressiondevice 320 having one latching mechanism 336 to secure the compressiondevice to a user's penis and to engage the compression hinge 338, whichacts as a pressure applying device against a user's urethra. Thelatching mechanism 336 has a pair of latches 340. The latches 340 arelocated at the hinge points 342 and each have a ratchet 344 and a pawl346. The pawl 346 can be hingedly connected to the strap. To secure thecompression device 320 to a penis and impinge a urethra, a user can pusha compression hinge 338 toward his urethra. As the hinge moves towardthe urethra, the ratchet 344 will engage the pawl 346, thereby securingthe device 320 to a user's penis. Further motion of the compressionhinge 338 can impinge a user's urethra. The latching mechanism 336 canfurther comprise a release button 348. To release the device, a user candepress the release button 348 which will force the pawl 346 from theratchet 344 and allow the compression hinge 338 to be pulled away fromthe user's urethra.

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate an alternate to the above embodiment of theinvention. In this alternate embodiment, the strap 102 further comprisesa strap latch 354. The strap latch 354 does not secure the device 320 tothe penis. The purpose of the strap latch 354 is to provide for quickand easy application and removal of the compression device 320. Thestrap latch 354 can have a male portion 356 and a female portion 358.The male portion 356 can attach to the female portion 358 to form asecure connection of one half of the strap to the other.

FIGS. 30 and 31 illustrate another preferred embodiment of a urethralcompression device 360. The compression device 360 has a strap 362, afirst latching mechanism 364, a second latching mechanism 366, a hingeset 368, and a compression hinge 370.

The first or closure latching mechanism 364 has a locking tab 372 whichprojects inwardly into a receptacle 374 which receives the strap 362.The receptacle 374 with the locking tab 372 is sometimes referred to asa strap catching element. To secure the urethral compression devicearound the user's penis without applying any undue pressure tospecifically cause the urethra to be flattened, the strap 362 isthreaded through the receptacle 374 and secured by engaging the lockingtab 372 against the strap 362. To release the strap 362, the locking tab372 is depressed to disengage from the strap 362.

In a preferred embodiment, the strap 362 is made from a fabric material376. The strap 362 has a free end 380 which is used with the first orclosure latching mechanism 364. The free end 380 of the strap 362 issometimes referred to as a flexible joining strap.

The molded material 378 extends from the receptacle 374 of the firstlatching mechanism 364 to a point beyond a hinge point 382 of the hingeset 368. The molded material 378 portion of the strap 362 includes bothhinge points 382 and 384 of the hinge set 368, and the compression hinge370.

The free end 380 of the strap 362 can have a plurality of size indicatormarkings 386. In contrast to several embodiments described above, themarking 386 are just lines and do not effect how the locking tab 372engages the strap 362. From these markings 386, a user can locate thepredetermined or premeasured point at which the device 360 will beadequately secured to his penis at which the device 360 will beadequately secured to his penis and prevent over or under tightening ofthe device 360.

In that the strap catching element of the closure latching mechanismengages the free end of the flexible joining strap at infinitepositions, it allows the device to be fitted to any penile circumferencewithin the range of the strap size provided. Furthermore, the infiniteadjustability afforded by the strap allows the user to bring the closurelatching or strap mechanism to the same degree of fit each time,allowing for changes in penile circumference which can result fromphysical exertion or environment conditions.

The second or compression latching mechanism 366 which works inconjunction with the compression hinge 370 to compress the urethra. Thecompression hinge 370 joins a pair of flat pressure-applying elements,which are referred together as a pressure-applying platform. The secondlatching mechanism 366, referred to in this embodiment as amulti-position ratchet, has a ratchet arm or rack 388 having a pluralityof teeth 390 which define receptacles 392, and an engaging tab or tooth394. To compress a urethra, the user moves the strap 362 in proximity tothe hinge points 382 and 384 of the hinge set 368 towards each other.The compression of the strap 102 of the urethra compression device 100near the hinge points 198 moves the compression hinge 205 upward. Theengaging tab 394 passes over and engages the latch receptacle 392 toretain the compression hinge 370 which acts as the pressure-applyingelement can be secured into place against the user's urethra. Similar toprevious embodiments, the compression hinge, which acts as a pressureapplying device, is sized such that when engaging the urethra, thecompression hinge has a width that compresses the user's urethra butdoes not unnecessarily compress the remainder of the penile shaft.

In describing the movement from the position of the closure latchingmechanism latched and the compression latching mechanism open to bothlatching mechanisms in the closed engaged position, the hinge points ofthe hinge set are moved towards each other. The second ends, the end atthe hinge point, of the flat pressure-applying elements are movedtowards each other. Typically by pressing the strap in proximity to thehinge points towards each other. The movement of the pressure-applyingelements towards each other results in moving the compression hingeperpendicular to the motion of the second ends of the pressure-applyingelement end towards and into engagement with the penis to compress theurethra. The compression latch moves to a closed position to retain thecompression hinge which acts as a pressure-applying element inengagement with the penis compressing the urethra. In a preferredembodiment, the compression latching mechanism makes an audible clickwhich allows the user to determine the position of the compression hinge370.

The compression hinge 205 forms the apex of a triangle with the distancebetween the second ends of the flat pressure-applying elements or hingepoints forming the base.

To release the compression hinge 370, a releasing tab 398 of theengaging tab 394 is flexed away from the ratchet arm 388, therebyreleasing the engaging tab 394 from the latch receptacle 392. Thecompression hinge 370 is then free to move away from the user's urethra.

FIGS. 32-34 illustrate another embodiment of a urethral compressiondevice 400. The compression device 400 has a strap 402 and a controlclamp 404. The strap 402 has a first latching mechanism 406 and a pocket408. The strap 402 is formed in a preferred embodiment of a fabricmaterial 410. The pocket 408 is formed between the fabric material 410and an elastic portion 412 that extends between two portions of thefabric material 410.

In the embodiment shown, the strap 402 has a first end portion 414 witha hook material 416 and a second end portion 418 with a loop fastenermaterial 420. The hook and loop materials 416 and 420, such as soldunder the trade name Velcro, are secured together so the strap 402encircles the penile shaft 40 with the control clamp 404 underlying theurethra.

The control clamp 404 is received in the pocket 408 on the strap 402.The control clamp 404 has a compression rotating arm 422 with acompression projection 424, a base 426, and an adjustment screw 428. Thecompression rotating arm 422 is pivotally mounted to the base 426 sothat the arm 422 rotates to move the compression projection 424 tocompress the urethra. In contrast to the previous embodiments, thecompression projection 424 extends transverse to the urethra rather thanextending laterally.

The compression rotating arm 422 has a worm gear 430 formed at the endopposite of the arm 422 from the compression projection 424. The wormgear 430 axis of rotation is colinear with the pivot axis 432 of therotating arm 422 as defined by the pins 434 received by holes 436 in thebase 426, as best seen in FIG. 34.

The adjustment screw 428 has a threaded outer surface 438 which engagesthe worm gear 430 of the compression rotating arm 422 as best seen inthe sectional view in FIG. 33. The adjustment screw 428 has a knob 440which the user rotates to move the compression projection 424 into andout of engagement with the penile shaft 40 to compress the urethra.

To secure the urethral compression device 400 around the user's peniswithout applying any undue pressure to specifically cause the urethra tobe flattened, the end portions 414 and 418 of the strap 402 are joinedtogether so that the strap 402 snuggly encircles the penile shaft.

To compress the urethra 42, the user rotates the knob 440 of theadjustment screw 428. The threaded outer surface 438 of the adjustmentscrew 428, which is in engagement with the worm gear 430, causes theworm gear 430 to rotate about the pivot axis 432 of the compressionrotating arm 422. The pivoting of the compression arm 422 about the axis432 moves the compression projection 424 to apply more pressure on theurethra. The user adjusts the control clamp to provide sufficientdepression of the urethra to prevent involuntary urinous flow. Theinherent friction between the components of the control clamp 404maintain the compression rotating arm 422 in the proper positionrelative to the base 426 of the control clamp 404.

As seen from the above embodiments, the urethral compression device canhave various different forms. The compression device can have a closurelatching mechanism and a compression latching mechanism, or a latchingmechanism that serves both purposes. The urethral compression device canhave a plurality of hinge sets. The hinge sets can be formed of flexiblematerial, such as a living hinge formed from the strap, or two separateportions of strap with a distinct hinge pin. The compression device canhave a preformed pressure applying device or one that is formed as acompression hinge moves.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreferences to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention as defined by the appended claims.

What is claimed:
 1. A urethral compression device for compression of aurethra of a penis, the urethral compression device comprising: astrapping device having a fabric strap with a pair of end portions, oneof the end portions having a hook material and the other end portionhaving a loop material, the hook and loop materials engaging to securethe end portions to each other; a second strap extending between twoportions of the fabric strap to form a pocket between the fabric strapand the second strap; and a control clamp carried in the pocket, thecontrol clamp having a base, a rotating arm carried by the base andhaving a projection to engage the penis and compress transverse to theurethra, and an adjustment screw carried by the base and engaging therotating arm to adjust the projection of the rotating arm relative tothe base.
 2. A urethral compression device of claim 1 wherein therotating arm has a worm gear with an axis colinear with the rotationalaxis of the rotating arm relative to the base and the adjustment screwhas a threaded surface for engaging the worm gear.